A mechanic needs a few specialized tools in order to function. There is a transmission jack among them. Without the aid of a jack, working on transmission is practically impossible.
Before making a transmission jack purchase, there are some important things to think about. In this manual, we will assist you in identifying them.
When removing and installing a transmission, a transmission jack is used to lift and support the weight of the transmission. Any mechanic or DIY enthusiast who wants to work on transmissions must have this equipment. We shall examine what a transmission jack is, its many varieties, and its application in this blog.
What is a Transmission Jack?
A hydraulic or pneumatic lifting tool called a “transmission jack” is used to support the weight of a transmission during removal and installation. It is intended to offer stability and stop the transmission from slipping or moving while the procedure is going on. The jack can be readily moved throughout the shop because it is supported by a mobile base.
If you’re doing it yourself or hiring an expert, you’ll need a transmission jack to install or remove a new transmission on various sorts of automobiles. Many different manufacturers, including Kiene, OTC, Sunex, Ranger, and many others, offer a wide selection of transmission jacks.
Picking a transmission jack typically comes down to the weight of the object you intend to move; lifting capacity range from 600 lbs. to 4,000 lbs. DIYers might only require a single sort of jack, but a professional garage will benefit more from a transmission jack with a wide range of possibilities.
It will make it possible to work on a variety of transmission types. Given the cost of these jacks, you should also think about their durability for the volume. Because these jacks are pricey, you must also take their durability into account for the volume of work anticipated.
Types of Transmission Jacks
Transmission jacks come in two primary varieties: hydraulic and pneumatic. Pneumatic transmission jacks raise the transmission using pressurised air, whereas hydraulic Transmission jacks utilise a hydraulic pump.
The most popular kind of transmission jacks are hydraulic ones. They are simple to operate and lift hefty Transmission jacks with little effort. Pneumatic jacks are more expensive, thus hydraulic jacks are a more appealing alternative for DIY enthusiasts.
On the other side, pneumatic transmission jacks employ pressurised air to elevate the Transmission. They can lift bigger Transmissions and have more strength than hydraulic jacks. However, they also cost more and need a source of compressed air.
How to Use a Transmission Jack
A transmission jack must be used safely and with some basic understanding. The actions to take when employing a transmission jack are as follows:
Step : First, set up the work area.
You must set up the work area before utilising the transmission jack. Ensure that the emergency brake is on and that the automobile is parked on a level surface. To hold the weight of the car and stop it from rolling or toppling over, use jack stands.
Step 2: Set the Jack in place
Place the transmission jack below the transmission, ensuring sure that it is centred and parallel to the mounting points for the transmission. The jack’s height should be adjusted to correspond to the transmission’s height.
Step 3: Secure the transmission
Make sure the transmission is securely fastened to the jack before raising it. The majority of transmission jacks have a chain or strap that connects into the jack and wraps around the transmission. Verify that the chain or strap is firmly fastened.
Step 4: Lift the transmission
To lift the transmission, gradually pump the jack handle. Make sure the transmission is lifting evenly and isn’t shifting or tilting by keeping an eye on it. Stop raising and move the jack or the chain/strap if the transmission begins to tilt or shift.
Step 5: Remove the transmission
After lifting the transmission, you may take the bolts out and separate the transmission from the engine. To relocate the transmission to a secure place, slowly lower it onto a stand or dolly.
Step 6: Install the transmission
Reverse the procedure to install the transmission. Place the jack below the transmission, then raise it into position. Tighten the bolts after lining up the transmission mounting points with the engine. Remove the jack and lower the transmission.
Safety Precautions
If not done correctly, using a transmission jack might be harmful. A transmission jack should be used with the following safety measures in mind:
- Always apply the emergency brake after parking the car on a flat surface.
- To hold the weight of the car and stop it from rolling or toppling over, use jack stands.
- Ensure that a chain or strap is used to secure the transmission to the jack appropriately.
- Never load the jack more than it can support.
- Never support the transmission with the transmission jack as a stand.
- Avoid touching the jack’s moving parts with your fingers or other body parts.
- When using a transmission jack, make sure to always wear gloves and eye protection.
In conclusion, everybody who wants to work on transmissions needs a transmission jack. It can greatly simplify and increase safety during the removal and installation of a transmission. Transmission jacks come in two primary varieties: hydraulic and pneumatic. The most popular kind of transmission jack is hydraulic, which is also typically more cost-effective than pneumatic jacks. To avoid mishaps and injuries when using a transmission jack, it’s crucial to take simple safety precautions.